USPS Priority Mail
Also known as: Priority Mail, USPS Priority
Definition
USPS Priority Mail is one of the most popular shipping services in the United States, offering fast delivery, competitive pricing, and reliable tracking. It’s often the best value for packages under 10 pounds shipping medium to long distances.
Priority Mail Features
Included free:
- Tracking (delivery confirmation)
- $100 insurance coverage
- Free Priority Mail boxes and envelopes
- Saturday delivery at no extra charge
- No residential surcharges
Delivery Speed
| Distance | Typical Transit |
|---|---|
| Same region | 1-2 days |
| Regional (1-2 zones) | 2 days |
| Cross-country | 2-3 days |
Note: Priority Mail is not guaranteed. For guaranteed delivery, use Priority Mail Express.
Priority Mail Pricing Options
Retail Pricing
- At post office counter
- Highest rates
- Weight and zone based
Commercial Pricing
- Through shipping software
- ~10-20% discount
- Same service, lower price
Commercial Plus Pricing
- High-volume shippers
- Additional discounts
- Requires volume commitment
Priority Mail Box Options
Flat Rate Boxes (Price = same regardless of weight/distance)
- Small: ~$10
- Medium: ~$16
- Large: ~$22
- Regional Rate A/B: ~$8-15 (zone-based)
Weight-Based (Your own packaging)
- Charged by weight and zone
- Sometimes cheaper than flat rate
- Cubic pricing available
Free Supplies
Order at usps.com:
- Flat Rate boxes and envelopes
- Regional Rate boxes
- Priority Mail tape
- Delivered to your door free
When to Choose Priority Mail
Best for:
- Packages under 10 lbs to distant zones
- Heavy items (using Flat Rate)
- Residential deliveries (no surcharge)
- Weekend deliveries needed
Consider alternatives when:
- Under 1 lb (First-Class is cheaper)
- Very heavy (UPS/FedEx may be competitive)
- Guaranteed delivery needed (use Express)
- Very close destinations (Ground may work)
Priority Mail vs. Competitors
| Service | Transit | Residential Fee | Saturday |
|---|---|---|---|
| USPS Priority | 1-3 days | None | Included |
| UPS Ground | 1-5 days | ~$5 | Extra |
| FedEx Ground | 1-5 days | ~$5 | Extra |
USPS often wins for residential shipments under 5 lbs.
Tips for Priority Mail
- Compare Flat Rate vs. weight-based - Check both for each shipment
- Use Cubic pricing - For lightweight bulky items under 20 lbs
- Get Commercial rates - Use shipping software for discounts
- Order free supplies - Don’t pay for Priority Mail boxes
- Consider Regional Rate - Cheaper than Flat Rate for nearby zones
- Add extra insurance - If value exceeds $100
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